Miriam was born during a rough period in our history, and given a name that reflects its bitterness. Yet even as a young child, her sense of belief that things would get better brought her to bold action. Her optimism and closeness to God stayed with her through the Red Sea and her travels through the desert, illuminating so much that seemed so dark.
Only one judge was granted prophecy because of spiritual refinement and greatness of character. This was Devorah. A woman of incredible talent who united the twelve tribes of Israel and brought the nation of Canaan to its knees - while maintaining her modesty and feminine qualities. Hear also Yael's story, a fascinating beauty who singlehandedly killed the king of Canaan.
Chanah was a phenomenal figure, who silently bore the pain of childlessness for many years. The intensity of her verbalized prayer brought her a son and serves as a lesson in tefillah for all times. Hear the threads of greatness within Chanah's struggle, which offers encouragement and comfort to each and every aching heart.
Being a good wife is a big job on it's own, but when caught between family members and your husband, the picture becomes much fuzzier, and the stakes higher. Both these women found themselves in this struggle. Michal between her love for her spouse and her father, and Avigail with David and a wicked husband. An important class that delineates the wisdom and tact these women dealt with their situation.
Mrs Bonnie Mansour looks at the lives of three seldom discussed Torah personalities to find unique strengths we can emulate. How did Rachav, a woman of ill-repute elevate herself to marry a leader of Israel? Hear how Hulda's descendant reached the level of prophecy while retaining an incredible level of compassion. And how Batsheva's combination of regal beauty and spiritual greatness brought her to share David's throne.
The winds of change and enlightenment were blowing through Europe, which was not good news for the Jews. Most affected were the young girls, who attended government schools and denied hearing anything about the richness of their heritage. This interesting class builds the powerful personality of Sarah Schneirer, the mother of the Beis Yaakov movement, a woman who was as modest as she was inspiring.
Rebbetzin Braunstein was a remarkable lady. Her kallah classes were legendary. As a principal she was a mother to all, and program director for a major summer girls camp. She was also a main instigator for the massive religious turnabout in the Syrian community. During her last fifteen years she struggled with an illness, without anyone knowing. Mrs. Mansour takes a powerful look at an incredible person, and the unforgettable lessons we only marvel at.
Mrs Bonnie Mansour presents a fascinating peek into the life of Leah. This matriarch struggled to avoid marrying the evil Esau and eventually won the hand of the righteous Yaakov, albeit at the expense of her younger sister Rachel. She then rose from disfavor to become the principle wife of Yaakov. Leah's story, so beautifully told, offers a fresh perspective of the woman, along with a glimpse of where she drew her aspirations from.
Miriam, Moshes' sister, tread the path to determined expression of self. She used her power of speech to accomplish many things, yet always maintained a strong belief that God is the Boss. This articulate role model reminds women to use the clarity of their voice, thoughts, and actions, both openly and behind the scenes to usher in our final redemption.
Tax season is long over, but there's always cheshbon ha'nefesh (personal accounting) which are the debits and credits of our soul. Mrs. Bonnie Mansour explains how you can measure the growth you've made, and where extra attention is needed. To be introspective is tough at first, but the reward of knowing yourself better and feeling closer to God will pay off big time in wisdom and self respect.